If You’ve Ever Tossed a Quarter Into a Vending Machine, Read This First
Next time you drop a quarter into a vending machine, you might want to take a second look. Some ordinary-looking Washington quarters could actually be worth as much as $26,000—and most people have no idea they’re holding something so valuable.
These coins are rare due to minting mistakes, limited production, or their unique historical value. Whether you’re a casual coin saver or just curious about what’s hiding in your change jar, this guide will walk you through 9 rare Washington quarters that could be worth a small fortune.
Attention Please: Why Are Some Quarters Worth So Much?
The Washington quarter was first introduced in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Most of these coins are quite common, but a few stand out because of rare mint errors, special editions, or low mintage numbers.
Even a small detail—like a different mint mark or production mistake—can turn an everyday coin into a collector’s dream. And collectors are willing to pay big money for these rarities.
Overview Table: 9 Rare Washington Quarters Worth $26,000 Each
| Year | Mint Mark | Why It’s Rare | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | D (Denver) | Very low mintage – under 500,000 made | $26,000 |
| 1932-S | S (San Francisco) | Also very low mintage | $25,000+ |
| 1943-S | S | Double die on the front of the coin | $15,000–$26,000 |
| 1950-D | D | Mint mark D struck over another D (RPM error) | $10,000–$20,000 |
| 1964 | No mark | Made of silver and possible transitional error | $12,000–$26,000 |
| 1965 | No mark | Struck on leftover silver blank | $15,000–$20,000 |
| 1970-S | S | Printed over a 1941 Canadian quarter | $20,000–$26,000 |
| 1983-P | P | Double die reverse & no official mint set | $10,000–$25,000 |
| 2004-WI | No mark | Wisconsin “extra leaf” error | $6,000–$26,000 |
1932-D and 1932-S Quarters – The Original Rarities
These two quarters mark the first year of the Washington quarter series. Because the Denver and San Francisco mints made so few of them, they are extremely hard to find today.
Collectors consider them essential for a complete set. If you happen to own one, especially in good or uncirculated condition, it could be worth thousands.
1964 & 1965 Silver Quarters – Hidden Metal Value
In 1964, quarters were still made from 90% silver. But starting in 1965, the U.S. Mint switched to copper-nickel coins. A small number of 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover silver blanks.
These silver 1965 quarters look almost identical to regular ones but are far more valuable. You can sometimes identify them by weight or by using a magnet.
Error Coins – When Mistakes Become Valuable
Some quarters become rare because of minting mistakes. Here are a few types of errors that increase a coin’s value:
- Double die: The design is imprinted twice, slightly off alignment.
- Repunched mint mark: The mint letter was stamped more than once.
- Overstruck: A coin is printed over another coin’s blank, like the 1970-S quarter over a 1941 Canadian quarter.
Coins with these kinds of flaws are rare and highly collectible.
Wisconsin State Quarter – Extra Leaf, Extra Value
Among newer quarters, the 2004 Wisconsin quarter has an unusual mint error—a corn stalk with an extra leaf pointing either up or down. This wasn’t supposed to happen, but several slipped into circulation.
If you spot this “extra leaf” version, it could be worth thousands of dollars today.
1983-P Quarter – No Mint Set & Double Die
In 1983, the U.S. Mint didn’t release official mint sets, so most quarters from that year were heavily circulated. Finding one in excellent condition is difficult.
What makes some of these coins even more valuable is a double die reverse—an error that makes the design appear doubled. These are highly prized by collectors.
FAQs
How can I tell if my quarter is rare?
Start by checking the year and mint mark (a small letter under “Liberty” or near Washington’s neck). Then compare with known rare types or check for errors.
Where is the mint mark on a Washington quarter?
On quarters from 1968 and later, the mint mark is on the front, just behind Washington’s neck. On older coins, it’s on the back.
Can I still find these quarters in circulation?
Yes! Rare coins, especially error coins, might still be found in circulation, coin jars, or old collections.
Should I clean my old quarter before selling it?
No. Cleaning can lower its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unpolished state.
